When Dining Al Fresco with Fido, Sharing Food is Still a No-No, Reminds Petplan Pet Insurance

PHILADELPHIA, April 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --The Maryland General Assembly recently passed the Dining Out Growth Act, which allows dogs to accompany pet parents to outdoor dining establishments, should restaurants permit them. This type of legislation is not uncommon as New Hampshire, New Mexico, Florida and various cities have also passed legislation to allow dogs in outdoor restaurants. While the presence of dogs in these establishments may not be a human health issue, Petplan, America's top-rated pet insurer, reminds diners that sharing their meals – even table scraps – with dogs can lead to serious health problems.

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"Among the most common claims at Petplan are gastrointestinal issues, which are frequently due to pets being fed inappropriate food items," says Dr. Jules Benson, Vice President of Veterinary Services for Petplan. "While hard to resist a cute, begging pet at the table, there are some life threatening medical conditions, such as pancreatitis and poisoning that can occur as a result."

Petplan prompts pet parents to be aware of the dangers certain human foods can have on dogs:

• Onions, Garlic and Avocados – These delicious ingredients contain substances toxic to dogs called persin, which damages heart, lung and other tissue.

• Rich Meats/Fat Trimmings – While the popular culture definition of "what is slipped under the table to the dog," these fat-heavy treats carry a serious risk for pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening condition.

• Bones – When it comes to human foods, the safest course of action is not to "give-a-dog-a-bone!"  Many of the common bones in left-overs run the risk of splintering or causing obstructions within the digestive system.

If your dog should ingest any of the above foods, contact your veterinarian for immediate treatment.  To learn more about Petplan and how to best protect your pet's health, visit gopetplan.com.

ABOUT PETPLAN

As America's top-rated pet insurance company, Petplan offers customizable policies to meet any coverage requirements and budget.  Petplan is the only insurer to cover all hereditary and congenital conditions for the life of the pet – without dollar limits per condition. For information, visit www.GoPetplan.com or call 1-866-467-3875.

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Jules Benson

https://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=97804

SOURCE Petplan